Not that strange, really. It's not a given that a successful shoe design will translate into a great boot, or vice-versa. I know some people like the indy shoe, but for me it falls flat, and has none of the charm of the boot.

Just received some indy boots from J.Crew purchased from their 15% off free shipping sale. The quality control on this pair is really pretty low. I have some pictures but its almost impossible to capture what Im talking about. The pictures above are trying to show that there is a gouging of the 'wood' (not actually sure its wood) there. The finish has been ripped off and the inside of the wood is exposed and has been damaged beyond that. It's a small area but is noticeable when looking at it while wearing it. This is a minor issue, but just annoying. I shouldnt have scuff marks like this on a new boot. I mean it seems unreasonable to buy a boot, then immediately have to oil and polish out scuff marks. The main thing is the first two pictures, which as I said is impossible to capture on film. I showed it to some friends who immediately pointed out the problem area so its not just me being touchy. I think Im going to return these to J.Crew but unfortunately they are out of Indy boots. I guess its shoemart time.

Just received some indy boots from J.Crew purchased from their 15% off free shipping sale. The quality control on this pair is really pretty low. I have some pictures but its almost impossible to capture what Im talking about.

Ha I was thinking the same thing. J.Crew just seems like too large and reputable a company to pull something like that. Either way they are going back, however the tone of my email to them will be different.

Yeah, we will be seeing versions of that boot popping up in different leathers and sole options. I think that Winn Perry has a version coming in Fall.

Guess I still think that they'd look bad with that kind of sole in any color. I think this is the first Alden style I just think looks straight-up bad. I don't like NST on me, but NST on others I think looks great (see cigar chukkas a few posts up). I don't know, though. On these new boots, the upper looks fantastic, but the sole just kills it. I know others feel the same way about Alden's current crepe sole, which I love. Whatever. Different strokes. EDIT: It occurs to me that if you buy these direct through an Alden Store, they could probably put a different sole on for you. I know that the one on Madison Avenue will do that (probably for an upcharge, I'd imagine). I love the fact that there are no speed eyehooks. LOVE IT. Speed hooks look better on RWs than on Aldens.